The I ♥ Cebu blog by Peanut Browas

﻿The month of August not only has one, but two long weekends. August 21 (Friday) is declared a special non-working holiday in commemoration of Ninoy Aquino’s Death Anniversary, while August 31 (Monday) is declared a regular holiday to celebrate National Heroes Day. If you are itching to go out and do something different this long weekend but still have not decided what to do, worry not, for we have compiled some fun activities you can do with your family or friends to make the most out of the long weekend (or weekends)!﻿

1. Whaleshark watching in Oslob

Photo source: stevedeneef.photoshelter.com

See and swim with the whalesharks up-close! This popular attraction has been Oslob’s ticket to tourism. But in order to protect and preserve the whalesharks, the local government limits whaleshark interaction until 12:30pm. Therefore, it is best to go there early, or spend the night at a resort nearby.

2. Diving in Malapascua, Moalboal and Mactan

MALAPASCUA. Photo source: malapascua.net

MOALBOAL. Photo source: cebufundivers.com

Cebu has one of the best diving spots in the country. Pristine blue waters, rich marine life and untouched coral reefs make Cebu a diver's haven. Divers can choose from several marine sanctuaries but among the more popular diving spots are Malapascua, Moalboal and Mactan.

3. Island hopping in Mactan

Photo source: outoftownblog.com

Island hopping tours have become very accessible in recent years. In Mactan, you can find several of these island hopping tours that will take you to some of Cebu's most breathtaking islands such as Pandanon, Nalasuan, Hilutungan, and Olango Islands.

4. Chasing waterfalls at Kawasan, Tumalog and Aguinid Falls

KAWASAN FALLS. Photo source: tenminutes.ph

TUMALOG FALLS. Photo source: saschasresort.com

AGUINID FALLS. Photo source: zosilyn.com

If you want a refreshing experience (literally and figuratively), why not try visiting one of Cebu's majestic waterfalls? The cold rush of clean, fresh water from the falls is truly invigorating and for a moment, will wash away all the stress brought by the hustle and bustle in the city.

5. Canyoneering in Badian

Photo source: adrenalineromance.com

Badian is mostly known for its idyllic Kawasan Falls, but only a few know about its beautiful canyons. Exploring these canyons has recently become a tourist attraction especially to the extreme sports enthusiasts, otherwise called as canyoneering. If you're in need of a little adrenaline rush and want a totally different experience, try canyoneering in Badian!

6. Climb a mountain

OSMENA PEAK. Photo source: cebutours.ph

MT. MANUNGGAL. Photo source: hangingrice.com

If you're still not stoked about canyoneering and would like a little more challenge, then you might want to try climbing a mountain. Cebu has great places for mountain climbers and climbing enthusiasts. Among these are Osmena Peak in Dalaguete, Mt. Manunggal in Balamban, Mt. Kapayas in Catmon, and Mt. Lanaya in Alegria.